Fuzzy linear clustering for fabric selection from online database

Abstract

In this paper, we apply the fuzzy linear clustering method of Hathaway and Bezdek (1980) to the task of fabric property prediction and fabric selection from an on-line database. We show that the fuzzy linear clustering method is quite effective for this task. The on-line database, associated with the intelligent search engine we developed, addresses the urgent need of cloth manufacturers, clothing designers and retailers to quickly find suitable fabric materials and fabric manufacturers.